Harvest rights examined

Page 13

An inquiry into the harvest rights of Sasktchewan Natives in the Northwest Territories was announced recently by the Indian Claims Commission.

The inquiry was requested by the Fond du Lac, Black Lake and Hatchet Lake

First Nations of northern Saskatchewan (the Athaska Denesuline). The claim, which

was rejected by the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, is to harvesting rights based on Treaties 8 and 10.

"This is an interesting situation involving rights across interprovincial and territorial boundaries," said Chief Commissioner Harry S. LaForme.

The Indian Claims Commission was established as an independent agency to

assist parties in specific claims negotiations. It can act as a commission of inquiry to

review disputes over the validity of claims and compensation issues. It can also provide mediation services when negotiations break down.

Since early December, the commission has been holding hearings into claims arising from the creation of Primrose Lake Air Weapons Range in the early 1950s in northern Alberta and Saskatchewan.